Gloucester coach Laurie Fisher tweeted: "Distressing and unfathomable to learn of Anthony Foley's passing today. One of the great Munster men and great family man. Prayers for all."

Former Australia fly-half Michael Lynagh said: "Just received the news of Anthony Foley passing. I am shocked and saddened. He was a great rugby man; but most importantly a good person."

Irish Rugby confirmed Foley died overnight at a hotel in Paris where his side were staying before their scheduled European Champions Cup clash against Racing 92.

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Anthony Foley has died suddenly at the age of 42Credit: Sportsfile

That first-round game has now been postponed and will be played at a later date.

A Facebook post from Irish Rugby said: "It is with deep regret that the Irish Rugby Football Union and Munster Rugby must advise of the passing overnight of Munster Rugby head coach Anthony Foley, at the team hotel in Paris.

"Munster Rugby management are liaising directly with Anthony's family and will provide them with any assistance and support required.

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Anthony Foley was in Paris for his side's European Champions Cup clash against Racing 92Credit: Getty Images

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Anthony Foley captained his country three timesCredit: PA:Press Association

It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our coach, former captain, colleague and friend today, rest in peace Anthony Foley.

"The IRFU and Munster Rugby pass on our deepest sympathies to all of Anthony's family and friends and ask for privacy for the family at this sad time."

Foley won 62 caps for his country and captained Munster to their first European Cup triumph in 2006 before joining their coaching staff.

He became the first player to win 200 caps for the Irish province side as a forceful No 8 and was given the skipper's armband three times for Ireland.

European Professional Club Rugby chairman Simon Halliday said: "On behalf of EPCR, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Anthony's family and to everyone associated with Munster and Irish rugby.

"He was a magnificent player and a superb coach and he will be sorely missed."

Irish President Michael Higgins released a statement saying: "It is with great sadness that I heard of the sudden death of Anthony Foley, the Munster rugby team’s head coach and one of the great figures of Irish sport in the modern era.

"Anthony Foley excelled from a young age and made a huge contribution to the successes of Munster and Ireland, in both his playing and coaching careers.

"Recognised as a great leader both on and off the pitch, he captained the Heineken Cup winning Munster team and represented his country at all levels, including playing 62 times for the senior team, and as captain on three occasions.

"He was regarded with great respect and deep affection not just among the Munster rugby fans but by all those interested in Irish sports and those with whom they interacted abroad.
"While news of his death will be received with shock by all those in the rugby and sports world, it is of course first and foremost a great tragedy for his family and close friends.

"As President of Ireland, and as Patron of the IRFU, I offer them and Munster rugby my deepest sympathies."

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